With cold and flu season peaking, Constance Bradley of Scottsdale Integrative Acupuncture says it's a good time to load up on nutrients and foods that boost the immune system. "I'm always thinking about what I can do with an ingredient that I see in the store this time of year besides chop it up and roast it because that gets really boring after a while."

Because squash is so plentiful right now, Bradley, a nationally board-certified acupuncturist, devised a recipe for summer squash pancakes. Since she lives in a house divided (her husband favors sweet flavors and she likes savory), the recipe can be altered to swing either way.

Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A, B and C, provides more potassium than a banana and is laden with zinc, magnesium and calcium. "Squash is amazing. Everyone should be eating it."